jderby

I liked the input reference on the 'CRAWDAD'! I have been a long time supporter of crayfish patterns, and in LATE summer months, I use it as a 'last resort' when top water dosn't produce. The 'crawdad' has proven over and over that it should have a place in any fly fisherman's vest pack! Thanks for the info as I learned a thing or two about colors to emulate the molting crawdad... As a side note, I have caught a few of the 'whiskered' friends while throwing the 'dads' ...i didn't see them listed in the article.... James D.

Reading these posts, I just had to 'chime' in my 2 cents.. I'm 32 and have been with 6 different companies, including one of my own.My company was absorbed by my largest client, and I now work for them. During the transition into self-employment, we had a baby boy. (my first). I don't reallty know how we got thru the bills and such with little insurance and savings going OUT to pay employees sometimes... It was a sobering experiance to say the least. I got some good insight reading your posts here, and realized how fortunate I am to be where I am today. (a steady income!) Also, I wanted to add that the stretch on Dupage in Shorewood from the NORTH frontage off Black and 55 (from the dead -end) is a great...great run. I have some pics posted in GEAR and TACTICS forum from the last couple weeks with some explanation of patterns used and times... This year has been unreal for us on the Duper. The FOX has been as elusive as that winning lotto ticket for me thus far...if anyone has some advice on spots..please feel free to drop me a post:) Take care all. J. Derby

Yes, sir...#6 gold head diver contraption of some kind I believe he was throwing...that pic shows how beat up that diver got...( I had to zoom way in to see what it was myself before replying.. ) The pic below..same day...slightly smaller fish (14.5 inch)..and on wooly bugger/olive/gold head...they were liking the browns and olives in the REAL clear water... We were fishing late afternoon/early evening and it seemed they turned on for about 45 min from 5:30-6:15pm or so... Doing well on dragon fly patterns this last week... Round 2 on the Fox tonight...I was SKUNKED on Sunday...yes, I'll admit it. I saw activity all around me on top...I threw everything and the sink. It just wasn't my day:( (Water was MURKY)

I have started hittng the Fox a bit harder this season...exploring new water for me. Can anyone give an opinion on top water fly patterns to try out?? I have been dropping in near 171st and many of my successful patterns on the Duper don't seem to produce squat. Today I'm going to strictly throw minnow patterns as I'm at a bit of a loss on top water... Thanks all... BTW.... Duper (shorewood area) producing LARGE smallies last 2 weeks..Buddy Nicky with a nice 16+ incher here..)